In an interview with NBC News' "Meet the Press" on June 5, President Donald Trump did not dismiss the possibility of government compensation for individuals charged with assaulting police officers during the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump defended an "anti-weaponization" fund, arguing that the protesters faced unfair prosecution and deserved compensation. When asked if those who attacked police should receive taxpayer funds, Trump stated, "I wouldn’t be inclined to say so, but I have to see it."
Trump also expressed doubts about the integrity of recent California elections, claiming they were "rigged" without providing evidence. He questioned the timing of election results, noting that California's vote-by-mail system can delay announcements of winners.
During the interview, Trump reiterated his belief that the 2020 presidential election was "dirty" and criticized the handling of the recent California elections, where ballots can be counted up to seven days after Election Day.
Trump's comments come amid uncertainty regarding the $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund, which a federal judge has temporarily barred from being established pending a lawsuit. Despite this, Trump expressed strong support for the fund, stating, "If it was up to me, I’d pay them the kind of money that they deserve."
He described the impact of the prosecutions on individuals involved in the Capitol attack, claiming many have faced severe personal consequences, including suicides. Trump noted that approximately 1,600 individuals were charged in connection with the Capitol attack, with over 140 police officers injured during the incident. He previously promised clemency for many involved in the riot, having pardoned around 1,500 individuals during his first term, including those who attacked police officers.